State Rep. Cam Cavitt recently voted for a plan to support natural preservation efforts in Northeast Michigan. The funding will help expand state land available for public use by more than 9,000 acres.

“The great outdoors is our most valuable resource,” said Cavitt, R-Cheboygan. “It’s only right we continue to safeguard our environment and expand public access. These preservation efforts are key if we want to maintain Michigan’s natural beauty for generations to come.”

Cavitt secured $3 million for the Black River Ranch acquisition of more than 8,800 acres of forestland, including Silver Lake, Bush Lake, Robarge Lake, and more than 14 miles of Black River and Steward Creek corridor. The property is adjacent to the Pigeon River Country State Forest and includes habitat for white-tailed deer, black bear, ruffed grouse, woodcock, bobcat, coyote, snowshoe hare, and bald eagle.

Cavitt also locked in $1.1 million for the Department of Natural Resources to purchase 556 acres of forestland, including Doe Lake, in Pigeon River Country State Forest. The property includes upland habitats, wetland habitats, and lowland conifer swamps.

State funding for the projects is part of Senate Bill 817, which includes $27.3 million for 18 land acquisition and 35 recreational development projects throughout the state with revenues from the Natural Resources Trust Fund.

The Natural Resources Trust Fund board approved its recommendations in December 2023. The projects received overwhelming support from the Michigan House of Representatives earlier this month.

Money in the Natural Resources Trust Fund comes from mineral development on state land – not general tax money – and is distributed annually in partnership with local governments. The funding must be used for acquisition or recreational development projects.

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